The women of Chen’s household had always been thought of as being particularly beautiful creatures. Even his grandmother was a stunning beauty, despite of, or perhaps enhanced by, her advancing age.

So when, without explanation, the women began disappearing one by one, the possibility that they may have been abducted by some sinister force was discussed by the villagers in hushed tones on dark street corners. Though no one would dare say so directly, there was no greater force for evil in the village than the Lord of the manor, who owned all of the land the village was situated on, and much more besides.

He was a ruthless man, and just like his father before him, was well known to take anything he pleased. There seemed very little doubt that, while on one of his regular visits to the fields to admire his vast wealth, he had seen and taken an unhealthy interest in the women. 

But grandmother was a very smart woman, and after her daughter and granddaughters had disappeared she said to her only grandson, “Chen, I have an excellent idea. Perhaps we can help ourselves and relieve the other long suffering villagers as well.”

He was worried, but being a very dutiful grandson, he listened attentively to his grandmother’s words.

Very soon Chen was the only one living in the old cottage, as all of the women had been spirited away, even grandmother. But he had listened well to the old